This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
As a team leader, delivering negative feedback can be a daunting task, especially when working remotely. However, it's essential to address performance issues to ensure your team stays on track.
Published on July 2, 2020, Jane Muiruri, a Senior HR Manager at Nation Media Group, offers valuable insights on how to deliver negative feedback fairly and effectively.
Before giving feedback, it's crucial to assess whether your team's objectives are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound. Regularly engaging with your team, especially when working remotely, can help you identify potential issues early on.
Consider holding weekly or fortnightly meetings to discuss roles, priorities, and realistic timelines. This will help you stay aligned with your team's goals and address any challenges they may be facing.
When delivering negative feedback, it's essential to focus on specific challenges rather than blaming the team. Individual sessions or meetings can be more effective than group discussions, allowing you to address each team member's unique needs and areas for improvement.
Be mindful of mob psychology and avoid blindly exploring reasons for your team's struggles. Instead, ask your team members if the deadlines are realistic and whether they're facing any technological challenges.
Develop a culture of regularly appreciating your team's achievements to maintain their self-esteem. Reprimand colleagues in private and offer praise in public. Finally, consider offering your team access to a counselor to support their mental health during challenging times.
— Jane Muiruri, Senior HR Manager, Nation Media Group
